William S. Hart first found success in late 19th century as a dramatic stage actor, with his best-known role as Messala in the stage production of Ben-Hur. Began film work in 1910s, and soon evolved into star of gritty western films for producer Thomas H. Ince. Later formed his own production company. Hart retired in the late 1920s after producing his swan song film, Tumbleweeds (1925).